Make your way safely through fog

22 October 2012

Make your way safely through fog

With the Met Office issuing yellow warnings for fog in areas across the country, the IAM is advising motorists on how to drive in treacherous foggy conditions:

• Before setting off, clean your windows and windscreen and ensure all your lights are working. 
• When you're ready to leave, switch on the dipped headlights. Use front and rear fog lights if visibility is less than 100 metres.
• Use your windscreen wipers on an intermittent setting to clear condensation.
• Switch the heater or air conditioning on and leave it running to keep the inside of the glass clear.
• Slow down and keep enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Make sure you can stop safely within the distance you can see clearly.
• Fog is not the same density all the time, it may get thicker - slow down if it does.
• Brake gently but earlier than usual so your brake lights warn drivers behind.
• At junctions, wind the window down and listen for traffic.
• Take high-viz clothing in case you have to leave the car. 

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "Fog is one of the most difficult conditions to drive in, so if you can avoid travelling, do. Ensure you are prepared so that you can carry out your journey safely, and allow lots of extra time for the trip."

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched its winter driving campaign which includes a dedicated website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.